SUBANG: The demand for eggs is always high during Ramadan and Hari Raya, as it is a key ingredient for biscuits, cakes and kuih.
Often, there is a shortage of eggs during this season, but the government subsidy programme has ensured normal supply of eggs.
“The supply of eggs is better than last year, although we expect there will be a shortage due to high demand,” said Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin, managing director of wholesale and retail chain outlet Mydin.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said he does not expect any profiteering from those selling eggs as it is a controlled item.
“Eggs of Grade AA, A, B and C are controlled food items with fixed prices,” said Armizan.
Chia Seong Pow, chief operating officer of QL Resources Bhd, one of Malaysia’s leading chicken egg producers, said the supply of eggs was normal thanks to the government’s subsidy programme.
In 2024, the government announced the subsidy of 10sen per egg while in 2023, it allocated RM927mil for egg subsidies alone.
“Currently, the supply is normal. The farms have ensured that there will be enough supply for Ramadan and Hari Raya.
“There could be a shortage for certain grades if there is a sudden surge in demand.
“The supply of Grade AA and Grade A eggs is lower compared to Grade B and C.
“The most popular eggs for making cakes and biscuits are Grade B and C – these we have ample supply,” he said.
Consumers, however, say that prices are still high.
Factory operator Nurul Nazirah Zulfakar, 31, said the increased prices of food items make her wary when going for grocery shopping.
“I earn RM1,700 monthly and I can see that eggs are expensive in the cities. I come from Batang Kali, where the eggs can be cheaper as they are not farm eggs.
“The cheapest egg tray here in Subang is RM15 and I share two trays with my hostel mates each month.
“I avoid buying kampung eggs as they are very expensive,” said Nurul Nazirah.
Jannah Amin said the price of eggs in Sabah has risen higher compared to the peninsula.
“In Kuala Lumpur, the price of Grade AA eggs is only RM16.80 per tray, for A it is RM12.60, Grade B (RM12) and Grade C is RM11.40. So far, there seems to be ample supply everywhere.
“In Sabah, even Grade B eggs cost RM13.80 per tray and Grade AA can go up to RM19.60. Also, there seems to be low supply.
“I hope the authorities will check and make eggs affordable in Sabah,” said Jannah.
The government is considering removing egg subsidies once supply stabilises.
